Thousands flocked to George Street last week for music, cocktails and boutique shopping at the city’s first Gin and Jazz Festival.

The event was organised by St Albans Business Improvement District, and designed to increase footfall to the street and invite new business to the range of boutiques.

In just three hours, more than 5,000 visitors descended on George Street to explore, shop, eat and drink, while listening to live jazz on stage.

St Albans Gin and Jazz Festival - photos by Stephanie Belton.

A range of specialist gins were on offer from Dylan’s and Suckerpunch, stuffed with exotic botanicals and spices.

George Street’s bars, boutiques and restaurants all contributed to the event, offering complimentary cocktails, special discounts, tastings and more. Street performers entertained the crowds while copious amounts of glitter was provided by local favourite Glitterbox, all set on a newly laid ‘lawn’ courtesy of Bespoke Flooring.

St Albans Gin and Jazz Festival - photos by Stephanie Belton.

Bid director Sarah Gillow, owner of Galio Jewellers, said: “The retailers and restaurants here have no hesitation in saying that the event was an overwhelming success! We look forward to welcoming the crowds back in the future now that they are agreed that George Street is a destination for quality design and entertainment!”